Bus

Private bus co. thrives in Detroit

DETROIT — NBC News reported that Andy Didorosi started Detroit Bus Co. in May 2012, buying six old buses and installed electronic trackers on them. The tracking technology is used to send the buses directly to where they are needed and when, such as to pick up students from after-school programs. Two of the buses each carry 1,100 children to the programs each month.

The tracking technology will also enable commuters to tap their location into the company web page or watch their bus approach on a smartphone app. For the full story, click here.

The campaign is similar to the one developed for subways, with the focus on reminding passengers that avoiding certain behaviors can ensure a faster and more pleasant ride for everyone. Reminders include step aside to let others off first; remove your backpack; and don’t clip your nails on the bus.

While Founder Matt George is interested in connecting Capitol Hill, K Street and Dupont Circle, it’s not yet clear if those will be the neighborhoods Bridj starts with. The start-up is encouraging interested customers to request specific routes on its website

Des Moines Area Regional Transit's 60-foot low floor articulated buses will replace high-floor buses and include newly installed ramps, remanufactured power trains, transmissions, engines and brakes. It will also be equipped with two ADA compliant wheelchair lifts.